Re-Model Citizens

As we try to understand the role of architecture post pandemic, we have first to better understand the ways we inhabit buildings and move through space. Angelica Ruano of New York based architectural and design practice Plain Space, outlines what future hybrid living might look like

The pandemic era has significantly impacted our living environments in every conceivable way and more. Shaking up the status-quo, the challenges of lockdown have forced a much more radical approach to architectural design and build not seen in as many years.

As our daily regimes alter beyond recognition, what has also become abundantly clear as we head towards a new post pandemic way of being, is the need to redefine living space; a ‘morphing’ into hybrid, multi-use environments. Gone are the ways of old. New commercial and residential projects now require to be designed and populated like small towns, offering the best of both worlds: privacy and security with plenty of al fresco square footage for community-centric living.

The current and expected continued need for remote workspace has already started to influence how we design homes for a post pandemic world. What were once binary requirements, have expanded into the incorporation of other essential space for work, home schooling, exercise, socialising and entertaining. Mono-functioning home environments are no more - hybrid living is the future.

Size matters, but sustainability is also now a key consideration. The ability to incorporate these new needs in smart and efficient ways is even more of a priority. Tomorrow’s ‘ideal home’ now requires work areas, home-schooling designated spaces, exercise and relaxation space, whilst taking into account private and collective open space and gardens for light and air. Overriding trends indicate that the demographic pool most in need of these requirements are young families and professionals, whilst at the other end of the spectrum soon-to-be-retirees, as well as those seeking work-life balance in their later years.

On a wider forecasting note - Plain Space will continue to conduct research in relation to post pandemic residential living environments and we’re truly excited about the possibilities these challenges present, both now and into the future. Aiming for something more than the creation of buildings in which we live, work and exist, is key. An environment that surrounds us, protects us and inspires us is a design aim we should all strive for.

With an altogether different set of design rules to adhere to in future home build, Plain Space have embraced those challenges with zeal and sensitivity, with the recent completion of 3 model homes within the Leon Houses commuity, a luxury residential development in WHICH CITY in Mexico; a project which is being hailed as a home design showcase and one of the world’s on-trend destinations for future build.

The three stunning contemporary properties, each one spread over 2,500 square foot plots, are surrounded by trees and lush vegetation, each with its own distinctive design footprint.

Each home comprises three bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, generously proportioned living rooms and kitchens, dedicated work areas, caretaker and leisure space. A specific focus on maximizing natural light so that all interior space feels connected with nature and the outdoors, is a particularly striking style accent.

Property roofs meanwhile, are used as terraces to make the most of outdoor living space for al fresco dining and entertaining combined with verdant garden plots and mini orchards.